Scandal-hit computing firm Phoenix IT Group today abruptly parted ways with its chief executive David Courtley and dumped its auditors Deloitte.

The group is investigating allegations of “accounting irregularities” which first surfaced a month ago and could result in a £14 million hit. “This resignation is not related to the ongoing accounting investigation,” insisted Phoenix IT, adding that the scandal is “of as much concern to David as it is to the remainder of the board”.

Bertram has a reputation as a “fixer” as he turned around IT company Azlan a decade ago. George O’Connor, analyst at Panmure Gordon, said Bertram’s appointment “indicates to us that Phoenix IT is now for sale. There has long been a community of buyers for IT infrastructure service companies.”

Courtley joined in August 2011 and earned a base salary of £375,000 plus benefits but Phoenix IT did not say if he would receive a pay off. He is entitled to 12 months’ notice.

Shares, which have slumped by 30% since the scandal broke, fell 3p to 152p.